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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Kailua-Kona…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /Humpback Whale Watch in Kailua-Kona
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    Humpback Whale Watch in Kailua-Kona

    Hear humpback whale sounds with a marine naturalist from December through March

    4.9 stars• 453 reviews

    Duration

    2.5-3 Hours

    Includes

    Cold beverages, onboard naturalist

    Highlights

    Explore Hawaiian waters during humpback season, from December through March. Listen for whale sounds through underwater hydrophones as a marine naturalist shares insight on local marine life.

    • Listen to whale sounds through onboard underwater hydrophones
    • Learn from a professional onboard marine naturalist
    • Search for humpback whales and other marine wildlife
    • Take in ocean views from vessels with comfortable seating and onboard bathrooms

    Itinerary

    • Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to departure
    • Leave Honokohau Harbor at scheduled departure time
    • Search for as many whales and as much wildlife as possible
      • Possible Whale Types: Humpback whales are the main focus, but we also can see beaked whales, false killer whales, melon-headed whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and more.
    • Return to Honokohau Harbor

    What's Included

    • Cold beverages
    • Professional onboard naturalist

    Important details

    • Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure
    • Ages 8+ only
    • Weight limit: 275 lbs per passenger
    • Requires an unassisted transfer from the dock to the vessel
    • Non-private tours require at least 10 passengers 24 hours before departure to operate

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for groups of up to 10, or 48 hours for groups of 10 or more. Cancellations within these timeframes may be charged up to 100% of the fare. A 6% cancellation fee per person applies.

    Product ID: UZFN7X

    FAQs

    Whale watching in Kona is year-round. From December to March, 2.5–3 hour humpback-focused tours reveal surface-active whales, mom-and-calf pairs, and large gatherings. For the rest of the year, 3–4 hour tours explore Kona’s deep ocean for pelagic whales, dolphins, and coastal wildlife. No two tours are the same.

    Wildlife sightings are guaranteed on dolphin and whale watch tours.

    Meeting details

    South Central Side of Honokohau Harbor

    Experience provided by Hawaiian Adventures

    Related locations

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

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    Report an issue

    Adult

    $122.07

    Ages 18+

    0

    Child

    $122.07

    Ages 8-17

    0

    Private Charter - 2.5 Hour

    $2,844.75

    Up to 46 people • Ages 10+

    0

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    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

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    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    453 reviews•Google Maps
    429
    2
    6
    8
    4

    Crew members like Amy, Olivia, Dennis, and Andrew come up repeatedly in these reviews, and it's clear they're a big reason people leave so happy. Guests consistently highlight how knowledgeable and passionate the naturalists are, with multiple biologists often on board to share insights about marine mammals. The boat, the Artemis, is described as spacious, clean, and well-maintained, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience. Wildlife sightings here tend to be genuinely impressive. Humpback whales are the main draw, but reviewers frequently mention surprise encounters with multiple dolphin species, monk seals, sharks, and pilot whales. The crew's willingness to extend the trip when something special is happening shows they prioritize the experience over the clock. One thing worth knowing: peak season runs roughly January through March, and a few guests who went later in April found whale activity winding down. That said, the crew worked hard even in off-peak weeks and still delivered memorable sightings.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    Incredible from start to finish! Andrew, Olivia, and Falkor were the best crew! Falkor was such a fun addition to the trip! We saw pilot whales, a shark, and many spinner dolphins. It was such a special trip and we were delighted. The boat is very nice and extremely clean and comfortable!

    Photo of Amanda Heller

    Amanda Heller

    June 19, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Incredible from start to finish! Andrew, Olivia, and Falkor were the best crew! Falkor was such a fun addition to the trip! We saw pilot whales, a shark, and many spinner dolphins. It was such a special trip and we were delighted. The boat is very nice and extremely clean and comfortable!

    Photo of Amanda Heller

    Amanda Heller

    June 19, 2026

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